Chinese Massacre of 1871: A Polarized Los Angeles | KCET

Title

Chinese Massacre of 1871: A Polarized Los Angeles

Old Chinatown, with its herbal healers and Chinese restaurants attracted many Angelenos seeking exotic pleasures and diversity, as well as gambling, opium, and prostitution. The combustible environment sparked a long line of racial riots in Los Angeles, including the infamous massacre of 1871, in which more than five hundred people ran through the Calle de los Negros–Chinatown's main drag–to attack, rob and murder residents in retaliation of the death of a white rancher who had been caught in the crossfire of two Chinese factions. Racial tensions and violence persisted for decades.

The majority of our funding comes from individuals like you. In addition to our many shows both streaming online and broadcasting to your television, we are dedicated to providing you with articles like this one. Many online journalism sites are moving to paid subscription models. We feel that it's important to continue to serve southern California and beyond with coverage of arts & culture, news, and extra stories to support our programs.